Receptacle



Jan. 2, 1923.

L. W. LUELLEN. DRECEPTACLE.

FILED JAN-2,1917- 2 SHEETS-SHEET 1.

A 7TOR/VEY BMW.

Jan. 2, 1923.

L. W. LUELLEN.

RECEPTACLE.

FILED JAN-2,1917.

2 SHEETSSHEET 2.

WAN

,4 TTOR/VEV Patent Jan. 2, 192..

g 1,449,541 OFFICE.

'- nawnnncn W. LUELLEN, or MOUNTAIN LAKES, NEW JERSEY.

RECEPTACLE.

.Q/ Application filed. January 2, 1917. Serial No. 140,041.

To all whom it may concern:

Be it known that I, LAWRENCE W. LUEL- LEN, a citizen of the United States, residing in Mountain Lakes, county of Morris, and State of New Jersey, have invented certain new and useful Improvements in Receptacles. of which the following is a specification.

This invention relates to receptacles and particularly to shallow compartment receptacles adapted to be made out of cheap readily destructible material, such as paper.

More specifically, my invention contemplates the provision of a paper receptacle of this character adapted either by itself or in combination with a rigid supporting mem her or tray to be utilized as a service dish for food.

. In restaurants and lunch rooms, a con-- replaced and they also require Washing. As

the latter is frequently merely a perfunctory process, they are moreover unsanitary. Also, in many lunch rooms, the patrons are expected to wait upon themselves, the food being delivered to them at a counter and then carried by them to tables or arm chairs. This usually necessitates the handling by the customer of a number of plates and dishes often at considerable inconvenience as the average customer lacks the skill of a professional waiter.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a substitute for china plates and dishes which, while generally available in place of such dishes, finds particular utility as a service platter in restaurants and lunch rooms as it avoids the losses incident to breaka e of china-ware, obviates dish Wash- 7 ing an simplifies the process of serving by providing a single vessel having several compartments .in which thevarious viands constituting the meal may be separately con-- tained.

It will be understood that a receptacle of the above character in order to be generally useful must be cheap so that it can be thrown away after a single use and it also must be tight so that the various juices and gravies will not leak onto the surface on which it is placed or into the holding tray. Both of these objects I may attain in various ways as by making the receptacle from a single blank of paper which is brought to the required shape entirely by folding.

The nature of the invention will be better understood by reference to the. accompanying drawings and the following detail description thereof which disclose one preferred embodiment ofthe ilivention as .illustrative of the "principle thereof and the best mode now known to me for carrying the same out.- It will be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to this embodiment nor-isit limited to serving dishes or receptacle for food.

It is a further objectof the invention to provide a light and inexpensive paper tray for containing a well balanced variety of foods constituting a meal, the tray being preferably so constructed and of such a light material that it will be weighted down by the food and can be easily removed after the completion of a meal to be destroyed. With this idea in mind the tray, of course, must contain a number of compartments, and in carrying out the invention the compartments are usually of different areas, one being preferably considerable larger than the other and may be used as a plate for foods taken from the smaller compartments.

In the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this specification, Figure 1 is a plan view of the compartment receptacle, the holding tray being shown in dotted lines. Figure 2 is a transverse section through the receptacle and tray taken along the line of one of the partitions. Figure 3 is a section on line III -I'H of Figure 1. Figure 4 is a view showing the side wall of the receptacle at a point Where the partition Fins it, the parts being shown partly folded. igures 5, 6 and 7 are detailed plan views showing steps inthe formation of a corner of the side wall. Figure 8 is a plan viewof the blank scored for folding, the dotted lines indicating the positions of what may be termed positive folds where the material is to be folded back upon itself or away from-,the line so as to provide an apex or edge; while the dot and dash lines indicate negative folds where the paper is to be folded so as to provide a crease or groove with reference to the upper surfaceof the material. Figure 9 is a plan view of the permanent tray or holder. Figure 10 is a' vertical section through the receptacleon the line X-X of Figure 1. Fi re 11 is'a fragmentary view. of a modi ed form of blank.

Referring to the drawings in detail, the

numeral 1 designates the temporary'receptacle which is preferably formed of pa er or other light and cheap material capa le of being folded. This material is cut in the form of a blank of suitable shape which may be a simple rectangle, as shown in Figure 8. If it is desired to provide a receptacle having a plurality of compartments such as one large compartment 2 and three small compartments 3, 4 and 5 respectively, then the blank may be folded as indicated by the lines in Figure 8, the blank being preferably scored alongthese lines in the proper direction so as to facilitate folding. The folding may be accomplished by hand or suitable machinery, preferably the latter. In order to form the side walls, the blank is scored along the lines 6 parallel to the edges and at each corner along divergent lines 7 and 8. The edge portions of the blank outside of the lines 6 are bent upwardly to form the side walls 9, a positive fold being made at each corner alon the line 7 and a negative fold along the km 8. In this way a plait 10 is formed at the corner, as shown in Figure 5, the end portion 11 projecting beyond the upturned walls. This end portion is then folded or rolled over as indicated at 12 in Figures 6 and 7 and serves as a lock for preventing the plait from opening. In this way the side walls are retained in upturned position. Preferably the side walls are not turned up at right angles to the bottom but flare outward somewhat as shown, the corners being more or less rounded as indicated in Figures 1 and 6.

When it is desired to provide compartments in the receptacle, then the blank will be folded along transverse lines, two negative folds being made along spaced parallel lines, as indicated for instance at 13 in Figure 8, and a positive fold being made along an intermediate line 14. Where the partition joins the side walls, plaits are formed by folding the paper entirely over upon itself along the section a/b of the line 6 and by making positive folds along the lines 15 and 16 and a negative fold along the line 17. These parts are then folded as indicated in Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, resulting in the formation of a raised V-shaped partition extending across the receptacle and joining the side walls thereof. Where it is desired to provide more than two compartments this may be accomplished by providing intersecting partitions as in the particular embodiment of the invention illustrated. The intersection of the partitions is preferably constructed as follows:

The paper ,is folded over upon itself along the portions a, d-d, e-e, fand f, 0, respectively, of the intersecting pairs of lines 13 and sharp positive folds are given to the paper along the short lines 18. The paper ma am is also given slight positive folds along the lines 19 forming the sides of a small square 20,-which is placed diagonally with respect to the partitions. The paperis also folded slightly in a positive direction along the short lines 21 extending between the points of intersection 22 of adjacent pairs of lines 18 and the corners of the square 20. In this way,-it will be seen that plaits 23 are formed over the adjacent ends of the partitions and a central box-like construction is provided having the top formed by the square 20, which is slightly raised above the apices of. the partitions, the spaces between the square and the partition walls being occupied by the pentagonal portions 24 (see Figures 1 and 10).

By forming a pair of intersecting partitions as illustrated, it will be seen that a receptacle having four compartments is provided and that by properly positioning the partitions, the proportions and the relative sizes of the compartments may be varied as desired. The arrangement shown is desirable for a serving dish in that a large compartment 1 is provided, which may be utilized as a plate and in which the piece de resistance may be served, while the various vegetables or condiments may be placed in the smaller compartments. It will be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the shape, number or arrangement of partitions or' compartments shown or to a receptacle of rectangular or other specific configuration.

The receptacle may be used in such manner or may be of such stiff material as to be self supporting, but preferably for the purpose of cheapness. .t is formed of light or thin paper and'when used as a serving dish is placed in a permanent tray or holder, such as illustrated in Figure 9 which may be formed of rigid material, such for instance, as papier m ach or metal; The tray illustrated comprises a flat bottom 40 'having upturned side walls 41 which support the side walls of the receptacle. Preferably also the tray is provided with the abutments 42 which are shaped to engage with the folds at the ends of the partitions so as to firmly support the latter and prevent displacement of the parts of the receptacle. The tray with the paper receptacle therein, it will be seen forms va rigid structure which may be readily handled and which provides the necessary compartments for receiving 1 the various kinds of food. At the same time, the food itself is entirely contained within the paper receptacle and is out of contact with the tray so that the latter does not require washing after each use but may be employed over again by removing the used paper receptacle which may be destroyed and replacing it with a new clean and sanitary receptacle. In this connection,

it is important to observe that by forming a paper receptacle in accordance with my invention, a structure is produced which leak-proof as the paper blank is not cut and unitary blank of paper without cuts or openings therein not only prevents .leakage as above mentioned, but accomplishes thls. result without the use of any paste or other fastening means and in fact altogether avoids .the use of such agencies. This reduces the cost of manufacture and also obviates the introduction of materials which may be unsanitary such as glue or paste. Of course at times it may be found desirable to provide a separate paper receptacle for each compartment of the permanent tray'or holder.

From the foregoing it will be clear that the formation of the tray is in keeping with the predetermined idea or plan of furnishing a tray for restaurant use and which will itself after the use b a single person compel its discard and t us prevent an unsanitary second-use. The material will be of a character, of course, to resist wear and tear in this single service, incident the customary employment of knives, forks or other utensils, but preferably not to permanently resist deterioration from the juices or liquids of the foods which would be expected to I soften the paper and with the soiling orsmearing thereof by the food act in a self destroying manner, all working to prevent a repeated use of the tray, as stated. However, if desired, the receptacle may be formed of paper coated or impregnated with paraffin or other suitable material of a water-proof and sanitary character, which will prevent the paper from softening, will stiffen the same and which may if desired be employed to' cement the various folds and plaits. The use of paraflin or other coating is not, however, in all cases necessary.

In Figure 11 I have shown a slight modification of my invention in which the blank is notched as indicated at 50 opposite the ends of the partitions, thus eliminating the small triangular folds shown particularly in.

Figures 3 and 4. I prefer, however, in most cases to retain these folds as they strengthen the receptacle and notching of the blank is also dispensed with.

While I'have shown and described specifically only one preferred embodiment of my invention, this is to be understood as merely as illustrative thereof and I do not desire to limit myself theretobut intend to claim cover my invention in whatever form its principle may be embodied. v Having thus descr'bed my invention, 1

LA receptacle of'the character described comprising a bottom, side walls'and a partition folded upward from the bottom and.

united to the side walls entirely by folding without cutting the material. 2. A receptacle of the character described composed of a relatively flexible non-metallic material having a bottom, integral side walls upturned therefrom and an inveited V-shaped partition folded upwardly from the bottom without cutting and united to the side walls by uncut folds of the material. 3. A receptacle of the character described conlilprising a bottom, integral upturned side wa s and a partition folded upwardly from the bottom, said partition being united to the side walls by uncut folds of the material formed by folding the portions of the side wall adjacent to the ends ofthe partition over upon end portions of the partition and then outwardly. X

4:. A serving platter co prising the combination with a rigidstra g, ofa receptacle adapted to be removabl held therein, said receptacle being forme from thin, cheap material and being provided with a plurality of compartments.

5. The combination with a receptacle formed by folding a single uncut blank of paper so as to provide a bottom, integral side walls and inte ral part-tions, of a tray of rigid materialia apted to receive said receptacle and retain the same in shape.

6. The combination with a receptacle 7. The combination with g receptaclev in- Tcluding a bottom and inv rted V-shaped partitions, of a tray adapte to hold said receptacle and having lugs co eratin with the end portions. of said V-shap d partitions. 8. The combination with a receptacle formed of a single blank of paper folded to provide integral upturned side walls and inverted V-shaped partitions, of a tray adapted to receive said receptacle and having side walls engaging and supporting the si e walls of said receptacle and havin lugs cooperating with the inverted V-shape partltlons.

9. A tray having up-turned side Walls and means within the tray and formed therewith adapted to enter intogrooved portions of a light removable flexible paper lining for the tray to hold the latterin place.

10. A receptacle of the character described formed from a blank of material folded to form a bottom, side walls, and overlapping partitions dividing the receptacle into compartments.

11. A'receptacle of the character described formed from a blank of material tending from the. sides and overlapping at their meeting point. 13. A receptacle of the character del scribed formed from a blank of material I tions extending upwardly from the bottom,

. compartments folded to form a bottom, sides, and partisaid partitions dividing the receptacle into and folded, intermediate their ends, to overlap. v

14. A receptacle of the character described formed from a blank of material folded to form a bottom, sides, and two artitions extending upwardly from the ottom, the partitions extending at right angles to one another and folded, intermediate their ends, to overlap at their meeting points. I

15. A receptacle of the character described formed from a blank of material folded to form a. bottom, sides, and partitions extending upwardly from the bottom and dividing the receptacle into compartments, the partitions overlapping intermediate their ends and connected to the sides by folding.

16. A receptacle of the character described formed from a blank of material folded to form a bottom, sides, and overlapping partitions dividing the receptacle into compartments, the ends of the partitions being connected to the sides by'folding'the adj acent portions of the sides over the ends of the partitions.-

17 A receptacle of the character described formed from a blank of material folded to form a bottom, sides, and inverted V-shaped partitions extending upwardly from the bottom and dividing the receptacle into compartments, said partitions being connected to the sides by folding the adjacent portions of the sides over the ends of the partitions.

18. A receptacle of the character described formed from a blank of material folded to form a bottom, sides, and inverted V-shaped partitions extending upwardly from the bottom and dividing the receptacle into compartments, the partitions be-' ing folded, intermediate their ends, to overlap and the ends of the partitions being connected to the sides by-foldin Y the adjacent portions of the sides over t e ends of the partitions.

19. A receptacle of the character described formed of a sheet of paper and comprising a bottom, side walls and a partition projecting upwardly from the bottom dividing it into predetermined varying sized compartments and united to the side walls entirely by displacing portions of the sheet without cutting the material, certain of the compartments being of a size to receive and confine such articles of foodas served in an ordinary meal;

20. A receptacle of the character described .composed of a relatively flexible non-metallic material having a bottom, integral side walls up-turned therefrom and double walled partitions of, varying lengths projecting upwardly from the bottom to form varying sized compartments and united to the side walls by uncut portions of the material, certain of the compartments being of a size to receive and confine such articles of food as served in an ordinary meal.

21. The combination with a receptacle including a bottom and double walled partitions, of a tray adapted to hold' said rece tacle and having means cooperating with t e said double walled partitions.

22. The combination with a receptacle formedof a single blank of paper displaced to provide integral up-turned side walls and double walled partitions, of a tray adapted to receive said receptacle and having side walls engaging and supporting the side walls of said receptacle and having means cooperating with the partitions. p

23. A tray adapted for single meal service and similar purposes, formed of integral paper material capable of ready destruction, said integral material being shaped to provide bottom, side wall and partition portions forming compartments marginally confined by uncut portions of the material, certain of the compartments being of a size to receive and confine such articles of food as served, in an ordinary meal.

24L. A tray formed of paper comprising bottom, side wall and partition portions forming varying sized compartments, the side wall and partition portions being integral with the bottom and with each other to constitute the whole and uncut, unjointed,

imperforate structure, certain of the compartmentsbeing of a size to receive and confine such articles of food as served in an or dinary meal.

25. A tray formed of paper comprising bottom, side wall and partition portions forming compartments of varying sizes in keeping with predetermined classes of foods intended to constitute a meal, the side wall and partition portions being integral with the bottom and with each other to constitute the whole and uncut, unjointed, imperforate structure, certain of the compartments being of a size to receive and confine such articles of food as served in an ordinary meal.

26. A tray formed of paper comprising bottom, side Wall and partition portions forming compartments of varying sizes in keeping with predetermined classes of foods intended to constitute a meal, the side Wall and partition portions being so related to each other, and secured to the bottom, to effectually divide off and seal each of said varying compartments from the other, certain of the compartments being of a size to receive and confine such articles of food as served in an ordinary meal.

27. A tray adapted for single meal service formed of paper comprising bottom, side Wall and partition portions forming compartments of varying sizes in keeping with predetermined classes of foods intended to constitute a meal,- the side Wall and partition portions being so related to each other, and secured to the bottom, to effectually divide ofl and seal each of said varying conipartments from the other, the paper being relatively thin and flexible to induce destruction of the tray following said single service.

28. A single service dining platter provided With varying sized compartment linings of thin cheap material which are to be compartments being of a size to receive and confine such articles of food as served in an ordinary meal.

29. An individual dining service platter comprising a plurality of diflerent sized self-destructible food serving compartments held in a predetermined relation one to the other, certain of the compartments being of a size to receive and confine such articles of food as served in'an ordinary meal.

30. An individual dining service platter comprising a plurality of different sized self-destructible food serving compartments joined together, certain of the compartments being of a size to receive and confine such articles of food as served in an ordinary meal.

31. An individual dining service platter made of one sheet of paper formed into a plurality of different sized self-destructible food serving compartments for single use, certain of the compartments being of a size to receive and confine such articles of food as served in an. ordinary meal.

32. A single service dining platter comprising a supporting member, and a plurality of readil destructible food serving compartments t ereon, certain of the compartments being of a size to receive and confine such articles of food as served in an ordinary meal, the supportin member andcompartments having mutua ly engageable portions to hold the latter in position.

LAWRENCE W. LUELLEN. 

